I was privileged to talk with several Chelsea Pensioners at different times over three years. All were really interesting, their military service covering different periods including WW2, Korea, Palestine, and others, but the last time was the most memorable. The old soldier had been a regular who had seen service in several campaigns as well as serving throughout the whole of World War 2. As I sat in the Mess chatting to him, several friends all male who were senior NCOs, asked to join us. After a few drinks everyone was relaxed and the stories started to flow. I let the guys ask the questions, happily sitting back and quietly taking my notes.
There were things he just wouldn't discuss, and very deftly changed the subject. Clearly an old hand at avoiding what was too painful, too horrific, or too private.
One of the Seniors was waiting to be sent to the Gulf, and was quite keyed up about it. I don't need my notes to remember what our guest said before he finished his drink and left us for a nap.
'Don't be so eager to go and fight. There is nothing glorious waiting for you. Its bloody. scary and filthy. Anyone who says he's not scared is a liar or an idiot. War's all blood and piss. When the bullets start flying and men die, you'll see, all blood and piss.'
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